In many countries, Valentine's Day is a day to celebrate the relationships between lovers, friends, and family members. It is celebrated in many countries around the world, including Australia, Canada, France, the United Kingdom, Mexico, and the United States.
Historically and religiously, February 14th marks the feast day of Saint Valentine, one of three saints in the Catholic church who were martyred for their work. February 14th also falls in close proximity to the ancient pagan festival of Lupercalia.
Today's celebrations of Valentine's Day draw from many different origins, making the holiday unique in many different countries.
Valentine's Day Traditions in France
A French Valentine's Day custom that is now illegal is the "une loterie d'amour," which was eventually banned by the French government because its practice got too uncontrollable.
During "une loterie d'amour," single men and women would enter houses that faced opposite each other and call to one another until they had paired off. If a man was not particularly happy with his chosen partner, he would simply leave the undesirable match for another woman.
After the pairing off had finished, women who were left single built a large ceremonial bonfire and burned images of men who had hurt them. During this ritual, the women would also yell abusive remarks and swear at the men. This was the aspect of the celebration that got too out of control to allow the custom to continue.
It is also traditional for people to visit the town of Saint Valentin in Indre, which is named after Saint Valentine. The village holds many fesitvals and events related to the February 14th holiday, including marriage vow renewals.
Valentine's Day in France Today
Today, the French celebrate Valentine's Day like people in many other countries by exchanging cards, small gifts, and words of affection. Fresh flowers are also a popular item to send or receive on this holiday.
It is said that the first modern Valentine's Day card was sent by a Frenchmen. Supposedly, Charles the Duke of Orleans sent the first modern Valentine's Day card, along with poems and other love letters, to his wife from his cell in the Tower of London after being captured by the British at the Battle of Agincourt in 1415.
Valentine's Day is a day meant to celebrate the affections among people in various kinds of relationships. Individual cultures have unique ways of commemorating the day and cherishing the relationships that hold them together.
Ashley Anderson - Ashley is an Ohio-based writer and editor with specializations in higher education, writing, and social activism.
Join the Conversation